3 stars (Not so easy to read) - I got this book for an introductory class on microbiology. As part of a course it is OK. As others have pointed out there are some sections that could have been done better. For me the main issue was this was not so easy to read. I know it is college level, but for example my introductory biology and chemistry books did not suck the life out of everything and even had helpful little side articles that connected things up. If you are a professor I suggest using a different textbook, and of course you are better qualified to find said book. My issue was that this book was dull and I am interested in the subject so that shouldn't have been the case. 3 stars (Good for amateur microbiologists) - This book does a great job in reviewing the basic tenets of microbiology, however, it doesn't delve into near as much detail as needed for any micro major or graduate student. Sections on molecular bio of bacteria are particularly bad, and metabolic pathways are given only a brief overview (entner-doudoroff has less than 2 pages). That being said, the book does do an excellent job in surveying the vast numbers of microbes, and it virology section is above average for a bacteriology book. Decent intro book, but anyone going into detail should buy something else. 1 stars (?!) - too expansice, no answers for the stupid practice problems. They provide instructor free Study guide and CD, and the student has to buy the boring book. If they treat their readers equally, I would gave them 2 stars. ... Prentice Hall :: Science & Biology :: Science&Mathematics :: Science :: Microorganisms :: Microbiology :: Life Sciences - Biology - General :: Jack Parker :: John Martinko :: Michael :: Brock Biology of Microorganisms (10th Edition)